叢林以無事為興盛，修行以念佛為穩當，

精進以持戒為第一，疾病以減食為湯藥，

煩惱以忍辱為菩提，是非以不辯為解脫，

留眾以老成為真情，執事以盡心為有功，

語言以減少為直截，長幼以慈和為進德，

學問以勤習為入門，因果以明白為無過，

老死以無常為警策，佛事以精嚴為切實，

待客以至誠為供養，山門以耆舊為莊嚴，

凡事以預立為不勞，處眾以謙恭為有禮，

遇險以不亂為定力，濟物以慈悲為根本。

──選自《百丈叢林清規證義記》

Essential Regulations

of the Monastery

Baizhang Huaihai (720 - 814, Tang Dynasty)

English translation: Ven. Zhi Yue

A monastery’s prosperity is achieved by

prevention of conflict.

In cultivation, the most reliable approach is

to chant the Buddha’s name.

In diligent practices,

upholding the precepts is foremost.

In treating illnesses,

eating less is the cure.

In handling afflictions,

endurance is Bodhi wisdom.

In dealing with gossip,

silence is the way to liberation from it.

In persuading residents to remain,

maturity most the genuine approach.

In performing duties,

wholeheartedness is meritorious.

In speech,

straightforwardness is achieved by brevity.

In dealing with elders and juniors,

compassion and harmony accumulates virtue.

In scholarship,

diligence is the gateway to understanding.

In the Law of Causes and Effects,

understanding is the key to being unimpeachable.

In life and death,

regard impermanence as a warning.

In doing the Buddha’s work,

be practical while showing finesse and sternness.

In receiving guests,

utmost sincerity is an offering.

In a monastery,

age and virtue is dignity.

In all undertakings,

preparation saves energy.

In dealing with others,

humility and respect is propriety.

In dangerous situations,

calmness and composure is concentration.

In helping others,

compassion is the foundation.

── from Baizhang Conglin Qinggui Zheng Yiji

(Record of Testimony and Meaning of the

Baizhang Monastic Regulations)